Spanish FA President in Trouble as Female Players Sign Collective Letter to Remove Him
Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales is in hot water after 81 Spanish female footballers, including the entire World Cup-winning squad, signed a collective letter refusing to play for Spain until he is removed.
The letter, which was sent to the RFEF on Friday, August 25, was sparked by Rubiales's controversial behavior during the Women's World Cup celebrations. In the days following Spain's victory over England in the final, Rubiales was seen kissing player Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent.
He has since claimed that the kiss was "consensual," but Hermoso has denied this, saying that she "did not consent to the kiss" and that she "does not tolerate that my word is questioned."
The letter from the female footballers is a powerful statement of solidarity and a clear indication that they will not tolerate Rubiales's behavior. It is also a sign of the growing strength of the women's football movement in Spain.
Rubiales has so far refused to resign, but the pressure on him is mounting. The Spanish Football Federation is currently investigating the matter, and it is possible that he could face disciplinary action from FIFA.
The situation is a major embarrassment for the RFEF and for Spanish football as a whole. It is also a reminder of the challenges that women still face in the sport. Hopefully, the actions of the female footballers will help to bring about change and create a more welcoming and respectful environment for all players.